Stellantis AI and machine learning executive latest to depart automaker
Luke RamsethStellantis NV's vice president for artificial intelligence, algorithms and machine learning is the latest executive to depart the company.
Berta Rodriguez-Hervas, a leader in the company's growing software division, has resigned for a new job, which was not disclosed, a Stellantis spokesperson confirmed Friday. She had been with the automaker for more than two years, and previously worked for the chipmaker Nvidia, carmaker Tesla Inc., as well as Mercedes-Benz Group AG as a doctoral research associate.
"We thank her for her significant contributions to Stellantis and wish her all the best in her new endeavor," a Stellantis spokesperson said in a statement. "Our organization maintains high talent density, and we remain committed to talent development and succession planning throughout the year to ensure continuity. Our strong team is well-equipped to continue the excellent work achieved so far."
The maker of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram has seen several senior executive departures lately, including Dodge and Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis, who retired; U.S. retail sales head Jason Stoicevich; Chief Customer Experience Officer Richard Schwarzwald, and former North America Jeep boss Jim Morrison. Automotive News first reported Rodriguez-Hervas' resignation.
She said in a video about a year ago that she'd worked on developing AI algorithms for autonomous vehicles, machine learning that could be used on radars and cameras in cars, as well as building teams to work on such projects. She said at the time that Stellantis offered a nice mix between "tradition and innovation."
Rodriguez-Hervas was still with the company late last week when she joined several colleagues for a Stellantis software demonstration at the company's Chelsea Proving Grounds in Washtenaw County. Executives discussed the development of new tech platforms, including STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit and STLA AutoDrive, as well as specific software products ranging from ChatGPT-powered voice assistants, to route planning features, and systems to help business owners track their car fleets.
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